Gotha was founded in 1885 by German immigrant Henry Hempel, who envisioned a pristine colony for his fellow countrymen and laid out the town’s distinct European-inspired street grids. Culturally preserved as a rural historical district, its economy relies on localized agricultural ventures, private estates, and small independent businesses. The town’s primary cultural attraction is Nehrling Gardens, the historic 1880s estate of famed horticulturist Dr. Henry Nehrling. Conveniently positioned just west of the city center, Gotha is situated 20 miles from Orlando International Airport (MCO) and 34 miles from Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). It provides an accessible commute to Cocoa Beach, which is located 68 miles to the east via major highway corridors. Popular things to do and local recreational activities include touring historic botanical gardens, shopping at local family-owned nurseries, taking historic walking tours, and fishing in local lakes.